Although you make the final decisions on what components are used to build your rod there are certainly brands that I prefer due to they're proven quality and value. I prefer blanks made by the following: Temple Fork Outfitter, Batson, Sage, Dan Craft and American Tackle. Guides and reel seats are selected from the offerings of Struble, REC, Batson, Fuji, American Tackle and Batson. All of my cork grips are hand turned by me using only the highest quality cork and burl.